Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Hand screwing in handles on newly refaced kitchen cabinet.

There are a few different ways to update cabinets when remodeling your kitchen. Two of the most popular choices are refacing or replacing them completely.

Kitchen cabinetry is the largest portion of a kitchen remodeling budget, so consider each option available before making a decision. Both refacing and replacing cabinets boosts the value of your kitchen. However, factors like the quality of the current cabinets, kitchen functionality, and the overall budget will change the viability of the updates.

Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Kitchen cabinet refacing is often the cheaper alternative to replacing cabinetry entirely, but it may not be the best option depending on the existing cabinets and current kitchen design.

Naturally lit kitchen with gray cabinets, white countertops, farmhouse sink, and plants on the windowsill.

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Kitchen cabinet refacing consists of covering existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts with a new veneer or a thin surface such as wood, thermofoil, or laminate. Oftentimes, contractors will replace the cabinet doors, drawer faces, and drawer boxes so the cabinets are almost new, without having to replace everything. Hardware is also typically replaced during this process. If the kitchen design is functional, and your well maintained cabinets were constructed durably, refacing is a realistic option.

How to Reface Kitchen Cabinets

Because of the difficult nature of applying veneer and other surfaces, professional contractors are typically hired to reface kitchen cabinets. Generally, they'll complete the processes using the following steps.

Before and after image of brown cabinets being refaced into white cabinets with gold hardware

Remove cabinet doors, drawers, and boxes.
Cover the front and sides of the cabinet boxes with a new veneer.
Add the cabinet hinges.
Install new drawers and door fronts.
Add any additional hardware and upgrades such as new cabinet knobs and handles.

Cabinet Refacing Cost

The majority of contractors will charge for refacing by the amount of door and drawer openings. A standard cost per opening is between $100 and $150, about half as much as replacing the same number of cabinets. Depending on the material used, and how much cabinet hardware is replaced, the price may vary. A standard kitchen will cost between $4,000 and $9,000 to be completely refaced by a professional.

Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Some cabinets are better off being replaced with custom or stock kitchen cabinets. You should make your decision based on the quality of existing cabinet boxes, current kitchen layout, budget, and the desired turnaround time.

When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Two-toned cabinets in a bright kitchen with a white subway tile backsplash.

When existing cabinet boxes begin to sag or break, it's time for a replacement. Conversely, if the kitchen layout isn't functional, you should replace the cabinets during a remodel. To replace them, the old cabinetry and countertops must be removed and new ones must be installed.

Tip: If your cabinets are in good condition, donate them to a Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

How to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

Before replacing your cabinetry, make sure you have properly measured your kitchen cabinets and read the manufacturer's instructions.

White kitchen cabinets replaced by gray cabinets and a backsplash with new silver appliances.

Remove existing cabinet doors, drawers, and boxes.
Review your layout, and mark the wall.
Locate the studs and mark their locations on the back of the cabinet.
Drill four holes through the back of the cabinet.
Set cabinet on cabinet jack, hold it level, then fasten to wall studs with 2 ½ inch drywall screws and finishing washers.
Continue step 5 for each wall cabinet.
Secure all aligning cabinets together using 1 ¼ inch screws.
Align base cabinets on the floor as depicted in the floor plan.
Fasten all base cabinets using 1 ¼ inch screws.
Screw the base cabinets to wall studs.

Cabinet Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing your kitchen cabinets depends on where you purchase the materials. Buying kitchen cabinets online provides savings in the thousands without limiting the number of choices. The prices range between $1,200 and $2,500, depending on the materials and finish. In contrast, a professional contractor charges between $8,000 and $20,000 for the cabinets and installation.

Kitchen Cabinet Refacing FAQs

Refacing kitchen cabinets is a complicated process. Below are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding the technique.

Is it better to reface or replace kitchen cabinets?

The best remodeling technique for your cabinetry depends on your existing kitchen cabinets and desired outcome. The chart below explains the pros and cons of kitchen cabinet refacing and replacing.

Refacing Cabinets

Pros

Typically less expensive. Many contractors will quote ⅓ or ½ the cost of replacing cabinets entirely.
The turnaround time is quick, often only taking between 3 to 5 days.
Refacing is more eco-friendly because you're not tossing old cabinets into a landfill.

Cons

Outcome might be sub-par, depending on contractor.
Can't update box interiors
Can't change kitchen layout, design problems will persist.
Limited customization options.
Veneer is challenging to DIY.
The hardware and extras can make the project costly.

Replacing Cabinets

Pros

Easily change the layout by adding cabinets, storage, an island, or rearranging appliances
With assembled stock cabinets, DIY assembly is possible.
The dingy box interior and exterior is replaced.
Unlimited design, finish, and feature options to choose from.

Cons

Old cabinets, which often contain formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals, are sent to a landfill.
The finished product has a slow turnaround time, taking up to 6 weeks.
Replacing cabinets requires replacing the countertop.
Customized kitchen cabinet replacements can be costly.

How much does it cost to reface kitchen cabinets?

It costs between $100 and $150 per opening to reface kitchen cabinets. To completely reface a standard kitchen it will cost between $4,000 and $9,000.

How long does cabinet refacing last?

Depending on your cabinet box and wood quality, refacing your kitchen cabinets can add another 20 years to the overall lifespan of your cabinetry.

Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?

Cabinet refacing is the cheaper alternative to replacing cabinets. However, costs could end up being nearly the same depending on hardware and upgrades added during the refacing process.

Can I reface my cabinets myself?

Refacing cabinets yourself is not recommended unless you have previous experience veneering. Not only is veneering a highly meticulous skill, but mistakes are costly and time-consuming.

The decision to reface cabinets or replace them with stock cabinetry depends on the state of your existing kitchen and desired outcome. Consider variables such as quality of the current cabinets, kitchen layout, and cost of the job before finalizing your remodeling technique.